The fascination with junk food: A guide for parents to encourage their teens to eat healthy

Adopt healthy eating habits requires a combination of education, involvement, and respect for their growing independence.(Pic source: Freepik)

1. Educate rather than dictate

I have observed many parents who tend to dictate and command their teens on what to eat. Teens are more often to indulge in making healthy choices if they know the why behind it. You can educate them on the significance of including fibres and roughage which will in turn enhance their stamina while studying or playing. Logics work better than laid out commands.

2. Make a mutual menu

A lot of Indian families have the female figure planning out the food choices. A better idea would be to involve your teen and other family members where everyone gets a chance to pitch in. A weekly menu system can be created so that each individual input is considered significant

3. Address emotional eating concerns

Recognize that teens may turn to food as a coping mechanism for stress, boredom, or emotional difficulties. Encourage them to use constructive coping strategies like journaling, taking up a hobby, or practicing mindfulness. Establish a safe space where kids can talk about their feelings without fear of repercussions.

4. Avoid power struggles

When your teenager is throwing tantrums and conflicting on what you prepare is boring and they’d rather have junk, avoid power struggles at all costs. Instead, calmly asking what ingredients are required for what they need to eat and escort them to the kitchen for a collaborative cooking session. It will help foster bond with your child and also understand their food preferences and habits.

5. Connect over cooking

Plan meals, go grocery shopping, and cook with your adolescent. Their sense of ownership and control over their eating decisions may increase as a result of this involvement. Motivate kids to try out new dishes, select wholesome components, and recognize the differences in nutrition between various foods. Healthy eating can become less of a bother and more enticing with this practical method.